TOWSON, Md. – The Landmark Conference has placed a priority on excellent sportsmanship since its first competitions in the fall of 2007.

This past May, the Athletic Directors from each of the nine member institutions agreed that outstanding sportsmanship and civility are important expectations for all participants to experience at each athletic event, particularly at contests between conference members, and these expectations shall be a primary focus moving forward.

Fair and respectful conduct toward all participants and supporters is a tenet of Division III, one that the Landmark and its members strive to achieve at all times.

As Landmark contests begin this weekend, the conference and its members will reiterate their sportsmanship values, which are consistent with the philosophy of NCAA Division III, at contests and via social media. Recently, each institution shared a letter with its fans regarding standards for behavior at games, a copy of which can be found here.

Fans and participants are expected to represent their teams, institutions and the conference with behavior above reproach, and to observe the principles of good sportsmanship – civility, respect, honesty, dignity, courtesy, fairness, and integrity.

When attending Landmark contests, fans should keep the following principles in mind:

• Cheer for your team, not against the opponent
• Do not get personal in your comments about players, coaches, or officials
• No profanity, vulgarity, racist, or sexist comments
• Give players, coaches and officials their space by keeping away from the playing and team bench areas

Fans not in compliance with these principles may be removed from the site of competition by event management staff, and subject to disciplinary measures by the institution.